Search Results (48)

The Shahejie Formation in Nanpu Sag is a crucial region for deep-layer hydrocarbon exploration in the Bohai Bay Basin. To address the impact of faults on sublacustrine fan formation and spatial distribution within the study area, this study integrated well logging, laboratory analysis, and 3D seismic data to systematically analyze sedimentary characteristics of sandbodies from the first member of the Shahejie Formation (Es₁) sublacustrine fans, clarifying their planar and cross-sectional distributions. Further research indicates that Gaoliu Fault activity during Es₁ deposition played a significant role in fan development through two mechanisms: (1) vertical displacement between hanging wall and footwall reshaped local paleogeomorphology; (2) tectonic stresses generated by fault movement affected slope stability, triggering gravitational mass transport processes that remobilized fan delta sediments into the central depression zone as sublacustrine fans through slumping and collapse mechanisms. Core observations reveal soft-sediment deformation features, including slump structures, flame structures, and shale rip-up clasts. Seismic profiles show lens-shaped geometries with thick centers thinning laterally, exhibiting lateral pinch-out terminations. Inverse fault-step architectures formed by underlying faults control sandbody distribution patterns, restricting primary deposition locations for sublacustrine fan development. The study demonstrates that sublacustrine fans in the study area are formed by gravity flow processes. A new model was established, illustrating the combined control of the Gaoliu Fault and reverse stepover faults on fan development. These findings provide valuable insights for gravity flow exploration and reservoir prediction in the Nanpu Sag, offering important implications for hydrocarbon exploration in similar lacustrine rift basins. Full article

As a strategic replacement area for hydrocarbon exploration in the Tarim Basin, the Kuqa Depression has been the subject of relatively limited research on the sedimentary characteristics of the Triassic strata within its western Wushi Sag, which constrains exploration deployment in this region. This study focuses on the Wushi Sag, systematically analyzing the sedimentary facies types, the evolution of sedimentary systems, and the distribution patterns of the Triassic Kelamayi and Huangshanjie formations. This analysis integrates field outcrops, drilling cores, wireline logs, and 2D seismic data, employing methodologies grounded in foreland basin theory and clastic sedimentary petrology. The paleo-geomorphology preceding sedimentation was reconstructed through balanced section restoration to investigate the controlling influence of foreland tectonic movements on the distribution of sedimentary systems. By interpreting key seismic profiles and analyzing vertical facies successions, the study classifies and evaluates the petroleum accumulation elements and favorable source–reservoir-seal assemblages, culminating in the prediction of prospective exploration areas. The research shows that: (1) The Triassic in the Wushi Sag mainly develops fan-delta, braided-river-delta, and lacustrine–shallow lacustrine sedimentary systems, with strong planar distribution regularity. The exposed strata in the northern part are predominantly fan-delta and lacustrine systems, while the southern part is dominated by braided-river-delta and lacustrine systems. (2) The spatial distribution of sedimentary systems was demonstrably influenced by tectonic activity. Paleogeomorphological reconstructions indicate that fan-delta and braided-river-delta sedimentary bodies preferentially developed within zones encompassing fault-superposition belts, fault-transfer zones, and paleovalleys. Furthermore, Triassic foreland tectonic movements during its deposition significantly altered basin configuration, thereby driving lacustrine expansion. (3) The Wushi Sag exhibits favorable hydrocarbon accumulation configurations, featuring two principal source–reservoir assemblages: self-sourced structural-lithologic gas reservoirs with vertical migration pathways, and lower-source-upper-reservoir structural-lithologic gas reservoirs with lateral migration. This demonstrates substantial petroleum exploration potential. The results provide insights for identifying favorable exploration targets within the Triassic sequences of the Wushi Sag and western Kuqa Depression. Full article

Urban expansion in coastal areas involves infrastructure development, industrial growth, and mining activities. These coastal environments face various environmental and geological hazards that require geo-engineers to devise solutions. An integrated geophysical approach aims to address such complex challenges as sea level rise, sea water intrusion, shoreline erosion, landslides and previous anthropogenic activity in coastal settings. In this study, the proposed methodology involves the systematic application of geophysical methods (FDEM, 3D GPR, 3D ERT, seismic), starting with a broad-scale survey and then proceeding to a localized exploration, in order to identify lithostratigraphy, bedrock depth, sea water intrusion and detect anthropogenic buried features. The critical aspect is to leverage the unique strengths and limitations of each method within the coastal environment, so as to derive valuable insights for survey design (extension and orientation of measurements) and data interpretation. The coastal zone of Throrikos valley, Attica, Greece, serves as the test site of our geophysical investigation methodology. The planning of the geophysical survey included three phases: The application of frequency-domain electromagnetic (FDEM) and 3D ground penetrating radar (GPR) methods followed by a 3D electrical resistivity tomography (ERT) survey and finally, using the seismic refraction tomography (SRT) and multichannel analysis of surface waves (MASW). The FDEM method confirmed the geomorphological study findings by revealing the paleo-coastline, superficial layers of coarse material deposits and sea water preferential flow due to the presence of anthropogenic buried features. Subsequently, the 3D GPR survey was able to offer greater detail in detecting the remains of an old marble pier inland and top layer relief of coarse material deposits. The 3D ERT measurements, deployed in a U-shaped grid, successfully identified the anthropogenic feature, mapped sea water intrusion, and revealed possible impermeable formation connected to the bedrock. ERT results cannot clearly discriminate between limestone or deposits, as sea water intrusion lowers resistivity values in both formations. Finally, SRT, in combination with MASW, clearly resolves this dilemma identifying the lithostratigraphy and bedrock top relief. The findings provide critical input for engineering decisions related to foundation planning, construction feasibility, and preservation of coastal infrastructure. The methodology supports risk-informed design and sustainable development in areas with both natural and cultural heritage sensitivity. The applied approach aims to provide a complete information package to the modern engineer when faced with specific challenges in coastal settings. Full article

As an important target for deep marine shale gas exploration, shale reservoirs near denudation areas have enormous resource potential. Based on the impression method, the sedimentary paleogeomorphology near the denudation area is identified as three units: the first terrace, the second terrace, and the third terrace. At the second terrace where Well Z212 is located, the thickness of the Longmaxi Formation first section is only 0.8 m, and the continuous thickness of the target interval is only 4.3 m, making it a typical thin shale reservoir. By integrating petrology, mineralogy and the seismic method, the thin shale reservoir is characterized. Compared to shale reservoirs far away from the denudation area, the Well Z212 (near denudation area) production interval (Wufeng Formation first section) has high porosity (6%–10%), moderate TOC (3%–4%), a high carbonate mineral content (10%–35%), and a high gas content (>7 m³/t). The correlation between the total porosity of shale and the density of high-frequency laminations is the strongest, indicating that the silt laminations have a positive effect on pore preservation. There is a significant positive correlation between carbonate content and the volume of mesopores and macropores, as well as the porosity of inorganic pores. It is suggested that carbonate minerals are the main carrier of inorganic pores in Well Z212, and the pores are mainly composed of mesopores and macropores. Under the condition of being far away from the fault zone, even near the denudation area, it has good shale gas preservation characteristics. The key development technologies consist of integrated geo-steering technology, acidification, and volume fracking technology. Based on geological characteristics, the fracturing process optimization of Well Z212 has achieved shale reservoir stimulation. Full article

This investigation presents the current status of seismic sedimentology, along with seismic geomorphology, as applied to the high-resolution (<5 m) mapping of sedimentary facies and hydrocarbon reservoirs in the subsurface. Seismic sedimentology involves the joint investigation of seismic lithology and seismic geomorphology. The high-resolution (as thin as one meter) interpretation of depositional units on lithofacies and paleo-landforms can be achieved by following a comprehensive workflow focusing on three mandatory steps (evaluating and improving data quality; selecting right attributes, preferably 90° seismic trace with frequency fusion; and making use of horizontal resolution on stratal slices) and two optional steps (guiding interpretation with seismic models and applying machine learning techniques). Seismic sedimentology is set to improve through enhanced calibration using well and outcrop data, along with regional and local geological models. Furthermore, there will be a deeper integration between geological and geophysical disciplines, as well as advancements in high-resolution geophysical acquisition and processing techniques. Full article

Objective: The research on turbid current deposition in shallow Marine shelf environments is relatively weak. Method: Based on three-dimensional seismic, drilling and logging data, etc., the spatio-temporal characterization of the shallow sea turbidity current sedimentary system was carried out by using seismic geomorphology and sedimentary numerical simulation techniques. Results and Conclusions: (1) A set of standards for identifying sedimentary units in the X Gas Field was established, identifying four sedimentary units: channel, mound body, channel-side accumulation body, and shelf mud; (2) The vertical evolution and planar distribution of the sedimentary units in the painting were precisely engraved. Along with the weakly–strongly–weak succession of turbidity current energy, the lithological combination of argillaceous siltstone–siltstone–mudstone developed vertically. On the plane, the clusters showed an evolution of isolation–connection–superposition. The scale of the river channel continued to expand, and the phenomena of oscillation and lateral accumulation occurred. (3) Three factors were analyzed: sea level, material sources, and sedimentary substrates (paleo landforms), and a shallow Marine turbidity current sedimentary system was established in the Honghe area in the northwest direction under the background of Marine receding, which is controlled by sedimentary slope folds and blocked by the high part of the diapause during the downward accumulation process of material sources along the shelf. (4) The numerical simulation results reconstructed the process of lateral migration of waterways, evolution of branch waterways into clusters, expansion of the scale of isolated clusters, and connection and superposition to form cluster complexes on a three-dimensional scale. The simulation results are in high agreement with the actual geological data. Full article

The analysis of sand distribution in a marine–continental rift basin is of practical value for hydrocarbon prediction. The primary objective of this study is to investigate the correlation between Paleoproterozoic sand development and paleomorphology in the Nanpu sag, and to focus on identifying the key factors controlling sand deposition in the marine–continental rift basin. Correspondence between the development of the Paleoproterozoic sand in the Nanpu sag and the paleogeomorphology shows that the gully limited the deposition of the sand into the lake. The differentiation and aggregation of the sand in the lake basin were influenced by two kinds of slope break zones (the syn-sedimentary fracture tectonic slope break zone and the paleo-topographic flexural depositional slope break zone). Due to tectonic movements in the marine–continental rift basin, as well as provenance supply and weather during chasmic stages, the impact of valley and syndeposit slope break zone on sand development varies. In areas where allocation is better as valley–syndeposit slope break zone, basal slope and its vicinity usually are favorable for delta (braided channel) and fan delta sand development, which extend basinward through hydraulic transport. Meanwhile, under the influence of syntectonic and gravitational disequilibrium, gravity flow sand can be seen sporadically distributed in the deep end of fan fronts. This study is of great significance for oil and gas exploration in the Bohai Bay Basin region and contributes to a better understanding of depositional processes in similar marine–continental rift basins around the globe. Full article

The southwestern Tarim Basin, shaped by the far-field effects of the India-Eurasia collision, serves as a critical archive for reconstructing source-to-sink dynamics and tectonic evolution in a Cenozoic intracontinental foreland setting. This study presents detrital zircon U-Pb geochronology and trace element data from sands of the Yulongkash and Karakash Rivers, major tributaries of the Hotan River draining the West Kunlun Orogenic Belt. Our results reveal distinct provenance signatures between the two tributaries: Yulongkash river sands (HT1) exhibit dominant Triassic (~208 Ma) and Early Paleozoic (~418 Ma) zircon populations, sourced primarily from the South Kunlun and Tianshuihai terranes, whereas Karakash river sands (MY1) are characterized by Early Paleozoic (~460 Ma) and Precambrian zircons, reflecting predominant contributions from the North Kunlun Terrane. Integration with published datasets highlights systematic spatial variations in detrital zircon age spectra, controlled by bedrock heterogeneity, fluvial geomorphology, and sediment mixing efficiency. Furthermore, crustal thickness reconstructions based on zircon trace elements constrain the terminal closure of the Proto-Tethys Ocean to ~420–440 Ma (peak crustal thickness: ~80 km) and the Paleo-Tethys Ocean to the Late Triassic (~210 Ma). These findings not only refine the provenance framework of the Hotan River drainage system but also provide critical insights into the timing of Tethyan ocean closures and the tectonic evolution of the West Kunlun Orogenic Belt, emphasizing the utility of detrital zircon records in deciphering orogenic histories within complex intracontinental settings. Full article

The Changling Depression, located in the southern part of the central depression zone of the Songliao Basin, is characterized by complex structures and has been shaped by multiple phases of tectonic activity. The strata in this region have undergone significant uplift and denudation, resulting in an incomplete understanding of the prototype basin and hindering progress in oil and gas exploration. To better understand the geological characteristics and exploration potential of the Changling Depression, this study begins with the reconstruction of denudation amounts. Using the stratigraphic trend extrapolation method, the denudation of strata during the faulting period of the Changling Depression is quantified. By combining the denudation thickness with the remaining strata thickness, the original strata thickness is restored. Employing MOVE 2018version and Petrel 2021version software, the paleogeomorphology of different geological periods is reconstructed. Through an analysis of the prototype basin’s structure, its evolution history, sedimentary filling patterns, and paleogeomorphological features, it is determined that the maximum depositional thickness and rate during the Huoshiling period occurred in the Shenzijing, Heidimiao, and Fulongquan areas, with strong central deposition that weakened toward the north and south. During the Shahezi period, depositional thickness and rates exhibited a pattern of weaker deposition in the south and stronger in the north. In the Yingcheng Formation–Denglouku Formation period, the basin entered a subsidence phase, with an expanded range of strata subsidence. During the Denglouku period, the Qianbei area experienced strong deposition, while the Heidimiao area saw even more pronounced deposition; in contrast, the Shenzijing area displayed very weak depositional activity. The study reveals a south-to-north migration of lateral subsidence centers over time, influenced by left-lateral tectonic forces, reflecting a shift in the dominant influence pattern. These findings clarify the morphology of the prototype basin and the distribution and migration of subsidence centers across different periods, providing valuable insights that will facilitate deeper oil and gas exploration efforts in the Changling Depression. Full article

S-wave seismic data are unaffected by natural gas trapped in strata, making them a valuable tool to study evaporite facies comparing to P-wave data. S-wave seismic data were utilized to construct an isochronous framework and analyze evaporite facies by seismic sedimentology methods in the Quaternary biogenic gas-bearing Taidong area, Sanhu Depression, Qaidam Basin, NW China, with calibration from wireline logs, geochemical evidences, and modern analogs. Techniques of phase rotation, frequency decomposition, R (Red), G (Green), B (Blue) fusion, and stratal slices were integrated to reconstruct seismic geomorphological features. Linear and sub-circular morphologies, resembling those observed in modern saline pans such as Lake Chad, were identified. Observations from Upper Pleistocene outcrops of anhydrite and halite at Yanshan (east of the Taidong area), along with lithological and paleo-environmental records from boreholes SG-5, SG-1, and SG-1b (northwest of the Taidong area), support the seismic findings. The slices generated from the S-wave seismic data indicate a progressive increase in the occurrence of evaporite features from the K2 standard zone upwards. The vertical occurrence of evaporite facies in the Taidong area increases, which coincides with the contemporary regional and global arid paleo-environmental changes. The interpretation of Quaternary stratal slices reveals a transition from a freshwater lake to brackish, saline, and finally, a dry saline pan, overlaid by silt. This analysis provides valuable insights into locating evaporites as cap rocks for biogenic gas accumulation and also into mining the evaporite mineral resources in shallow layers of the Taidong area. Full article

The development pattern of the high-quality reservoir in the Changxing Formation in the Wolonghe-Yangduxi area of southeastern Sichuan is complex. To clarify its evolution, genetic mechanisms, and distribution patterns, this study integrates data from profiles, cores, thin sections, and well logs. It reveals the distribution mechanisms of the bio-reef and shoal reservoirs in the Changxing Formation and discusses the controlling effects of tectonic, sedimentary, and diagenetic processes on reservoir development. The results show the following: (1) The Changxing Formation mainly develops open platform facies, platform margin facies, and slope-basin facies, which can be further subdivided into subfacies of platforms, intra-platform depressions, intra-platform depressions marginal reefs, and intra-platform depressions marginal shoals. The intra-platform margin reefs and the reefs at the edge of the platforms are favorable microfacies for reservoir development. (2) The high-quality reservoirs of the Changxing Formation are dominated by medium-thick-layered biogenic reef limestone and bioclastic limestone, with secondary porosity as the main reservoir space. (3) Sedimentary conditions, sea level fluctuations, and diagenesis are crucial factors for reservoir development. Paleogeomorphological conditions provide the foundation for reservoir development, while sea level fluctuations control the internal structure of the reef–shoal and the cyclical variations in the reservoir. Full article

Based on the special geological background of the east and north slopes of the Baiyun Depression, the development conditions of Paleogene structure–lithology traps, the development conditions of high-quality reservoirs and the difficulty in characterizing the distribution characteristics are studied in this paper. It is concluded that the eastern Baiyun is located on the Baiyun–Liwan continental–oceanic large-scale intershell separation system, with a complex tectonic background and a tectono-sedimentary pattern of “fault and uplift interlocking and uplift and depression interphase”. The palaeo source sink system of the low bulge in the east of Yundong is restored, the favorable position of reservoir collective development and the favorable characteristics of reservoir–cap assemblage are clarified, and the paleo-geomorphology and sedimentary filling evolution law are clarified. Guided by the drive of oil and gas accumulation, three types of large and medium-sized structure–stratigraphic traps have been implemented in the eastern Baiyun system, including the convex inclined end, the restricted fault gully and the magmatic floor intrusion, and the corresponding oil and gas accumulation models have been perfected. By studying the structure, source and sink system and trap characterization of the eastern Baiyun basin, the development conditions and exploration direction of the large and medium-sized Palaeogene traps are systematically summarized. Full article

In post-rift basins, the thickness center, fine-grained deposit center, and subsidence center rarely converge. Clearing the three centers with the thickest center is difficult. In the Huangyan district of Xihu Sag, the East China Sea Shelf Basin, an Oligocene post-rift basin beneath major potential igneous provinces, has inconsistent thickness and composition. Analysis of core samples, drilling, and 3D seismic data corroborated this finding. This means that the formation thickness center does not match the lithology center, which indicates water depth. Gravity and magnetic measurements in the studied region show that significant magmatic activity is responsible for the difference between the center of thickness and the fine-grained deposit. Thermal sinking must be restored to fix this. Therefore, we propose (1) recreating the early Oligocene residual geomorphology in Huangyan using 3D seismic data. (2) Software computing quantitative subsidence. (3) Paleogeomorphology is verified by normal and trace element paleowater depths. (4) Reconstruct the paleogeomorphology and analyze how volcanic activity affected them and the three centers in the basin formed after tectonic plates separated. A shallow water delta and thermal subsidence show that magmatic activity is persistent in the north. With less thermal subsidence and deeper water, the southern area features a shallow lake sedimentary system. The thickness and fine-grained deposition centers were in the north and south, respectively. Geophysical and geological methods were used to reproduce the post-rift paleogeomorphology shaped by magmatic processes. Full article

The Qiulitage fold and thrust belt (QFTB) is situated in the Kuqa Depression, exhibiting spectacular salt structures with well-defined geometric and kinematic characteristics and thereby playing a significant role in advancing the study of salt structures worldwide. This research, based on regional geology, well logging, and newly acquired three-dimensional seismic data, applies principles of salt-related fault structures to interpret seismic data and restore structural equilibrium in the Qiulitage fold and thrust belt within the Kuqa Depression by conducting quantitative studies on structural geometry and kinematics. Results indicate clear differences in salt structures between the eastern and western segments of it, vertically divided into upper salt, salt layer, and lower salt and horizontally into four parts. The Dina segment features a single-row basement-involved thrust fault, the East QFTB segment displays detachment thrust faults involving cover layers, the Central QFTB segment exhibits detachment thrust faults involving multiple rows of cover layers, the leading edge forms structural wedges, and the West QFTB segment develops blind-thrust faults. During the deposition of the Kangcun formation, the eastern profile experiences an 18% shortening rate, 14% in the central part, and 9% in the western part. For the Kuqa formation, the eastern profile experiences a 10% shortening rate, 9% in the central part, and 3% in the western part, indicating more significant deformation in the east than in the west. Quantitative statistical analysis reveals that different types of detachments, paleogeomorphology, and northeast-directed compressive stress exert control over the Qiulitage fold-thrust belt. Full article

The 2012 satellite ASTER geoscience maps of Australia were designed to provide public, web-accessible, and spatially comprehensive surface mineralogy for improved mapping and solutions to geoscience challenges. However, a number of the 2012 products were clearly compromised by variable green and/or dry vegetation cover. Here, we show a strategy to first estimate and then unmix the contributions of both these vegetation components to leave, as residual, the target surface mineralogy. The success of this unmixing process is validated by (i) visual suppression/removal of the regional climate and/or local fire-scar vegetation patterns; and (ii) pixel values more closely matching field sample data. In this process, we also found that the 2012 spectral indices used to gauge the AlOH content, AlOH composition, and water content can be improved. The updated (new indices and vegetation unmixed) maps reveal new geoscience information, including: (i) regional “wet” and “dry” zones that appear to express “deep” geological characters often expressed through thick regolith cover, with one zone over the Yilgarn Craton spatially anti-correlated with Archaean gold deposits; (ii) a ~1000 km wide circular feature over the Lake Eyre region defined by a rim of abundant “muscovite” that appears to coincide with opal deposits; (iii) a N–S zonation across the western half of the continent defined by abundant muscovite in the south and kaolinite in the north, which appears to reflect opposing E ↔ W aeolian sediment transport directions across the high-pressure belt; (iv) various paleo-drainage networks, including those over aeolian sand covered the “lowlands” of the Canning Basin, which are characterized by low AlOH content, as well as those over eroding “uplands”, such as the Yilgarn Craton, which have complicated compositional patterns; and (v) a chronological history of Miocene barrier shorelines, back-beach lagoons, and alluvial fans across the Eucla Basin, which, to date, had proved elusive to map using other techniques, with potential implications for heavy mineral sand exploration. Here, we explore the latter three issues. Full article